When someone is called a wildcard, it usually isn’t a compliment. It suggests unpredictability, recklessness, and a tendency to either greatly help or deeply harm a situation. In the context of Christianity, evangelism, or church membership, being a wildcard can be detrimental. As Christians, we must ask ourselves: when it comes to our faith, evangelism, and church involvement, are we wildcards? What does the Bible say about our dependability and commitment?

The Bible calls for steadfastness and reliability among believers. James 1:8 says, “he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” This verse describes someone who is unreliable, vacillating between faith and doubt, commitment and indifference. Such instability can damage our witness and weaken our relationships within the body of Christ. 

To be double-minded is to have divided loyalties. It means trying to follow two opposing paths simultaneously, leading to confusion and instability. James 4:8 urges us, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” This call to purity and single-minded devotion highlights the importance of being wholly committed to God. 

Throughout the Bible, we see examples of people who exhibited wildcard tendencies. Saul started well but became a wildcard as his reign progressed. His disobedience and jealousy, particularly towards David, led to his downfall. In 1 Samuel 13:13-14, Samuel tells Saul, “You have done foolishly. You have not kept the commandment of the Lord your God, which He commanded you. For now, the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your kingdom shall not continue.” Saul’s unpredictability and disobedience cost him his kingdom. 

Judas is perhaps the ultimate biblical example of a wildcard. He followed Jesus but ultimately betrayed Him for thirty pieces of silver. In John 12:6, we learn, “This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.” Judas’ betrayal stemmed from divided loyalties and greed. These stories serve as stark reminders of the consequences of being undependable and disloyal.

A double-minded person exhibits disloyalty. We can’t be devoted to both purity and sin, faith and doubt. Hebrews 11:6 tells us, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Faith and doubt cancel each other out, leaving us with nothing. When we look away from God, we miss His direction and the blessings He has for us. 

To please God and be effective in our Christian Walk, we must be loyal and dependable. Here are some ways to cultivate these qualities: 

1. Commit to Daily Devotion: Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Make daily Bible reading and prayer a non-negotiable part of your routine. 
2. Be Active in Church: Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” 
3. Cultivate Accountability: Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Surround yourself with Christian friends who will encourage and challenge you in your faith. 
4. Serve Consistently: Galatians 5:13 says, “For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Find ways to serve in your church and community faithfully. 

God desires us to be completely committed to Him. He wants us to be reliable and faithful in our walk. Luke 16:10 says, “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much” (NKJV). Dependability in small things reflects our capacity for greater responsibility.

In today’s world, commitment and dependability are becoming rare, both within and outside the church. In 2024, we see troubling statistics:

• Divorce Rates: Divorce is just as high among those who attend church as those who do not.
• Abortion Rates: The rate of abortion among churchgoers’ mirrors that of the general population.
• Job Changes: On average, people change jobs every two years.
• Pet Abandonment: Pets are often given up to humane societies within one to two years of being acquired.
• Gym Memberships: Many people pay for gym memberships but rarely attend.
• Diet Failures: Diets start and stop daily.
• Church Attendance: Attendance is falling across the nation.

Being dependable and reliable isn’t easy, but it is necessary. As Christians, we must lead by example. We must be the ones who remain steadfast and reliable, not just for our benefit, but for the lives and souls of those around us. Let us strive to be loyal and dependable servants of Christ, who hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23 NKJV).

If you’ve found yourself being a wildcard or causing hurt within your church, it’s time to seek forgiveness. Pray to God for strength to change, apologize to those you’ve hurt, and commit to being a better church member and/or Christian. Together, we can build a community that pleases God and serves as a beacon of His love and faithfulness.

Being a wildcard in our faith is not what God desires for us. He calls us to be steadfast, loyal, and fully committed to Him. When we are double-minded, we cannot please God or fulfill His purposes for our lives. Instead, let us strive to be dependable followers of Christ, unwavering in our faith and dedication. As we do so, we will reflect His light and love more clearly to those around us, drawing others to the steadfast hope we have in Him.